Research in the Sadighi group focuses on the design and synthesis of late transition metal complexes in unusual coordination environments and oxidation states. We are particularly interested in the synthesis of small clusters of low-coordinate late transition metals, with the goal of achieving difficult bond-forming and bond-breaking processes to develop new catalytic cycles. Metal–metal interactions represent an important aspect of these clusters, with implications for cooperative substrate activation and for multielectron reactions.

Catalytic reactions of interest include the transformation of carbon dioxide to liquid fuels. This field has seen remarkable recent advances, but important opportunities and challenges remain. These challenges are complementary to the development of renewable energy: A conversion of CO2 to chemical fuel could make CO2 a currency, rather than a waste product, of energy use. Another area of interest is the reaction chemistry of labile metal fluorides in carbon–fluorine bond-forming reactions. Finally, low-valent late metal clusters show promise in key steps of aerobic oxidation catalysis, with potential industrial and environmental importance.

Research Opportunities & Areas

The school is engaged in cutting edge research across the full breadth or modern chemistry and biochemistry. Our activities bridge traditional boundaries between scientific disciplines and involve partnerships across the campus, around the country and internationally. Research lies as the core of graduate education in the chemical and biochemical sciences, but there are also many opportunities for Georgia Tech undergraduates to work alongside our Ph.D. researchers and graduate students to develop their professional skills.

Our Faculty, Staff, Students, and Friends

Members of our distinguished faculty are engaged in the education of ~350 Chemistry or Biochemistry undergraduate majors, ~240 Chemistry graduate students and more than 2,000 other undergraduates each year through their service teaching activities. The school’s extensive and internationally recognized research programs engage its graduate students, ~110 PhD researchers, many undergraduates and collaborators, throughout the campus and from around the world, in cutting edge science. These programs are supported by a highly talented administrative, technical and scientific staff.

Alumni and faculty during our 100 Years of Chemistry celebration.

Giving Back to the School of Chemistry & Biochemistry

The School of Chemistry and Biochemistry benefits greatly from the generosity of it alumni and friends. Our alumni help guide the future of the school thorugh our advisory board and they also help our current students through mentoring and similar activities. Funds donatedby our alumni and friends, for immediate use or to provide support in perpetuity through the creation of an endowment, enable many different activities.